High-set Vs Low-set Engagement Rings: the Perfect Profile

One of the most important decisions when designing an engagement ring isn't just about the centre stone. The difference between high set and low set engagement rings dramatically impacts everything from comfort and practicality to how your wedding band will fit alongside your engagement ring.

In a low-set ring, the gemstone is positioned closer to the band. This setting is often chosen for its practicality and comfort, as it minimises the likelihood of the ring snagging on clothing and other materials. The stone's proximity to the band provides natural protection from impact, ideal for someone who has a manual job or is naturally heavy handed. While it’s a clear advantage, it may not be ideal for all.

A low-set engagement ring will not always sit flush with a wedding band, and most will require a curved wedding band for both rings to sit flush. This isn’t a hard and fast rule, so it all depends on personal preference. Our Matisse Emerald Bezel Frame Solitaire Engagement Ring is a beautiful example of the understated luxury that is low-set engagement rings.

A high set ring on the other hand features the gemstone mounted higher above the band. This setting is favoured for its versatility and ability to sit flush with most wedding bands and are often considered more dramatic or striking in appearance. The elevated stone creates visual impact, allowing light to enter the diamond from all angles and maximises brilliance. Bold designs like the Elsie Marquise Solitaire with Opposing Marquise Accents are where high-set rings shine. By allowing a wedding band to sit flush with a striking design like this, it ensures the wedding set doesn’t look bulky and instead seamless.

While this is certainly the case, think about this stone as exposed. Yes, it’ll be exposed to light for a bright shine, but also to damage like snagging and impact.

For those new to wearing rings, high-set designs require a period of adjustment as you become conscious of the ring's presence and learn to navigate daily activities without catching or bumping it.

Choosing between high and low-set engagement rings comes down to the full picture; what does your lifestyle look like and what do you want your complete wedding set to look like? Understanding the answer to these questions will no doubt make your search much easier.

One notable exception to the low-set wedding band compatibility issue is the floating solitaire setting. A floating solitaire setting offers the comfort of a low setting, but the style versatility of a high setting. The open bridge design allows the ring to sit snugly against the finger whilst still leaving space for a straight wedding ring to sit flush against it.

Take our Kiana Oval Floating Low Set Flush Solitaire with Hidden Halo. This innovative design provides the practical benefits of low-set profiles combined with the wedding band versatility of high-set designs.

Cathedral settings feature graceful arches that rise from the band to hold the centre stone in its elevated position. These arches resemble cathedral architecture, hence the name. The classic cathedral setting creates elegant, sweeping lines with moderate height, like in our Nora Emerald Cathedral Solitaire Engagement Ring.

Cathedral settings have higher profiles that increase snag risk and may feel less comfortable for those preferring minimal jewellery. Basket settings on the other hand use minimal metal to create a cage-like structure under the stone, holding it close to the band. The structure of this is best seen in our Halle 4-Claw Basket-set Trilogy Engagement Ring where the straight lines create an almost art-deco effect.

Choosing between cathedral and basket settings comes down to whether wedding band flush-fitting or everyday practicality takes priority. Cathedral settings suit those who want versatile wedding band options and traditional, elegant aesthetics with maximum diamond sparkle. Basket settings are ideal for active lifestyles requiring practical, low-maintenance rings, preference for modern, minimalist designs, and comfort as the top priority.

Several approaches address wedding band compatibility with low-set engagement rings. Curved or contoured wedding bands are designed specifically to wrap around engagement ring settings, creating flush contact despite the engagement ring's low profile. Our Moana Bead Set Pavé Curved Wedding Band can be paired with any solitaire engagement ring for a better fit. These curved bands can also be customised to match your engagement ring's exact needs, creating seamless bridal sets. For more information about curved bands, read our blog Curved Bands, Perfect Fits: How to Contour Bands for Different Shapes.

Open wedding bands like the Pearl Open Wedding Ring feature small indentations that accommodate setting elements, allowing closer positioning than standard straight bands even if they don't achieve perfect flush contact. Some couples choose to wear wedding bands on separate hands if they strongly prefer straight bands but love low-set engagement rings, and for some having space between the engagement ring and wedding band is the aesthetic they wish to achieve – so it comes down to what you’re looking for.

To discuss customising a wedding set, or discussing your options – get in touch for a virtual or in-person appointment here.